insecticidal

adjective

in·​sec·​ti·​cid·​al (ˌ)in-ˌsek-tə-ˈsī-dᵊl How to pronounce insecticidal (audio)
1
: destroying or controlling insects
2
: of or relating to an insecticide
insecticidally adverb

Examples of insecticidal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For indoor plants, insecticidal soaps and neem oil products can be used. Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Aug. 2025 Use an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, according to label instructions. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 5 Aug. 2025 Natural sprays of insecticidal soap or Neem oil could also be applied. Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 2 Aug. 2025 Their natural enemies live in the garden too, so don’t spray with any kind of pesticide, oil or insecticidal soap. Nan Sterman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for insecticidal

Word History

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of insecticidal was in 1857

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Cite this Entry

“Insecticidal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insecticidal. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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